The Arsenal legend believes Liverpool FC forward Roberto Firmino is the best player in Europe in his nine and a half role

Ian Wright believes Liverpool FC star Roberto Firmino is the best player in Europe playing in a “nine and a half” role.

The Brazil international has been in sensational form in the 2017-18 campaign to help the Jurgen Klopp’s men challenge for the Champions League crown and a top-four place in the Premier League.

Firmino is enjoying his most productive season to date at the Anfield outfit following the 26-year-old’s return of 14 goals in 30 appearances in the Premier League in the current campaign.

The South American has played a key role in helping Liverpool FC to reach the Champions League quarter-finals with eight goals and three assists in nine appearances so far this term.

Firmino has been used as the central figure in Klopp’s attack to allow Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah to cut in from the wing and cause havoc in opposition defences.

Former Arsenal striker Wright believes Firmino is the best player in Europe in his unique role in Klopp’s team.

“Firmino in that role is perfect,” Wright told BBC Radio 5 Live.

“The way he plays it. He can go up top or he can come into play. Firmino can score goals and can drop off. He doesn’t have to be judged on pure goals. He plays it better than anyone in Europe – easily.”

Firmino has netted 46 times in 131 games in all competitions over the past two and a half seasons following his move to Liverpool FC from Bundesliga outfit Hoffenheim in £29m deal in the 2015 summer transfer window.